Seaside ports in Languedoc are like St Tropez used to be before Brigitte Bardot arrived” says Miguel Espada of Propriétés & Co with only a hint of exaggeration. Several upmarket hotel chains agree. Banyan Tree and Six Senses are among five star brands said to be eyeing up locations in the Languedoc.

“With a vision to provide a little piece of their enviable French lifestyle to investors and visitors alike, they set out to build and restore boutique developments that would remain authentic and classy, yet not pretentious.”

“The estate is designed to ensure that it is part of - rather than apart from - the village. And with its own vineyard and renovated 12th century gardens and views of the olive groves and mountains, it's a lovely place for a relaxed weekend getaway.”

“They are building a portfolio of beautiful and unusual properties appealing to an international clientele. The company DNA profile can be summed up as authenticity, quality architectural renovation, viticulture and 'art de vivre'.”

“Across the channel, Les Jardins de Saint Benoît is a charming rendezvous for a family get-together. In the unspoilt Corbières region in the south of France, its 171 traditional Mediterranean houses are set within 20 acres of vineyards, olive groves and gardens.”

“Port Rive Gauche is the latest addition to the portfolio of the award-winning Propriétés & Co. It's a stylish renovation of what was once the port's wine store. The building has been fashioned into 11 chic self-catering apartments.”

Owners are encouraged to integrate into the local community. This is being promoted by participation in grape and olive harvests, cookery classes and regional festivities, to preserve the local customs and traditional way of life.

Propriétés & Co is an award-winning French developer that specialises in renovating historic buildings in the South of France. Those that bear their quality hallmark include a 17th-century convent that is now a boutique hotel residence and a 16th century abbey.